
Rishikesh Rafting Starting Point
Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the sacred Ganges River, surrounded by the majestic Himalayas.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal weather for rafting

Rishikesh Rafting Starting Point
Best Time
Ideal weather for rafting

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the sacred Ganges River, surrounded by the majestic Himalayas.
"The Ganga's rapids are a perfect mix of adventure and fun, and the stunning Himalayan backdrop makes it even more special."

🎯 Book with Trusted Operators
Choose operators with good safety records and experienced guides. Check reviews and ask about their safety protocols.
🎽 Gear Up Properly
Life jackets, helmets, and paddles are essential. Ensure they fit well. Waterproof bags are provided for phones/valuables.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shivpuri Rafting Stretch
Shivpuri
The most popular stretch for adrenaline junkies, offering thrilling rapids and stunning Himalayan views.

Brahmapuri Rafting Stretch
Brahmapuri
Ideal for beginners and families, this 9km stretch provides a taste of rafting with milder rapids.

Kaudiyala Rafting Stretch
Kaudiyala
The longest and most challenging route (35km), perfect for experienced rafters seeking an epic adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Choose Your Rafting Stretch Wisely
Book in Advance & Confirm Details
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book with Trusted Operators
Choose operators with good safety records and experienced guides. Check reviews and ask about their safety protocols.
🎽 Gear Up Properly
Life jackets, helmets, and paddles are essential. Ensure they fit well. Waterproof bags are provided for phones/valuables.
💰 Confirm Pricing & Inclusions
Prices vary by stretch. Clarify what's included (e.g., photos, transport) to avoid hidden costs.
🥶 Be Ready for Cold Water
The Ganga water is freezing! Jumping in is refreshing but can be a shock. Embrace the chill for added fun.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book with Trusted Operators
Choose operators with good safety records and experienced guides. Check reviews and ask about their safety protocols.
🎽 Gear Up Properly
Life jackets, helmets, and paddles are essential. Ensure they fit well. Waterproof bags are provided for phones/valuables.
💰 Confirm Pricing & Inclusions
Prices vary by stretch. Clarify what's included (e.g., photos, transport) to avoid hidden costs.
🥶 Be Ready for Cold Water
The Ganga water is freezing! Jumping in is refreshing but can be a shock. Embrace the chill for added fun.
📸 Capture the Memories
Many operators offer GoPro footage for an extra fee. It's a great way to relive the adrenaline-pumping moments.
🚶♀️ Consider a Group Booking
If traveling solo, look for operators who can help you join a group for a more social and potentially cost-effective experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
River rafting in Rishikesh is overwhelmingly praised as a thrilling and unforgettable adventure, with many highlighting the professional guides and stunning Himalayan scenery. The experience is lauded for its mix of adrenaline-pumping rapids and serene stretches, making it a must-do for visitors. While the water is cold, it adds to the excitement, and safety is consistently rated highly.
"River rafting in Rishikesh was one of the most thrilling experiences of my life! 🚣♂️ The Ganga’s rapids are a perfect mix of adventure and fun, and the stunning Himalayan backdrop makes it even more special. The guides were professional, ensured safety, and made the ride super exciting. From calm stretches where you can soak in the beauty, to adrenaline-pumping rapids – it’s an unforgettable journey. A must-try adventure when visiting Rishikesh! 🌊✨"
Shubham Singh
"Rafting in Rishikesh came highly recommended, and we now completely understand why—it was one of the most thrilling activities available.
We made the reservation easily via WhatsApp and were picked up directly from our hotel, which made the whole experience seamless from the start. Once we arrived at the rafting site, everything was taken care of—life jackets, helmets, paddles, and full instructions were provided. We also had the option to get GoPro footage of our trip for an extra charge, which we chose, and we've honestly rewatched the videos so many times since—such a great way to relive the experience!
Phones and valuables were stored safely in a dry bag on the raft, so no need to worry about them getting wet.
The scenery was stunning—the water a clear, light turquoise, surrounded by the hills of Rishikesh. Between rapids, we were even encouraged to jump in and swim, which was both refreshing and shocking because the water was freezing! But it added to the fun and adrenaline.
During one of the more intense rapids, a member of our group actually fell into the river, but one of the guides responded immediately and professionally, pulling him back into the raft in seconds. We felt extremely safe throughout, thanks to the experienced and attentive team.
If you’re in Rishikesh and looking for something adventurous, this is an absolute must-do. Great for beginners and adrenaline seekers alike!"
Paulina Gomez
"If you’re craving a heart-pounding adventure, river rafting in Shivpuri, Rishikesh is an absolute must! The rapids here are wild and exhilarating, pushing your limits and giving you an adrenaline rush like no other. Battling the powerful currents while surrounded by stunning Himalayan views made the experience unforgettable. The guides were super skilled and pumped up the excitement while keeping us safe every step of the way. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or looking to challenge yourself, this rafting trip will leave you buzzing for days!"
Manoj Tiwari
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Most rafting operators in Rishikesh offer pickup services from your hotel or a designated meeting point. If you're arranging your own transport, you can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach specific starting points like Brahmapuri, Shivpuri, Marine Drive, Byasi, or Kaudiyala.
Rishikesh is well-connected by road to major cities like Delhi. The nearest railway station is in Haridwar, and the closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun). From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Rishikesh.
Yes, Rishikesh has multiple starting points for river rafting, each offering different distances and thrill levels. Popular ones include Brahmapuri (9 km), Shivpuri (16 km), Marine Drive (24 km), Byasi (30 km), and Kaudiyala (34 km).
The distance varies. Brahmapuri is relatively close, while Shivpuri is about 16 km away. Kaudiyala is the furthest, around 34 km from Rishikesh. Operators usually arrange transport from Rishikesh.
Absolutely! Many rafting companies provide convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off services, making your adventure seamless.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Prices vary significantly based on the distance of the rafting stretch. A 9km stretch can cost around ₹550-₹850, while longer stretches like 16km or 24km can range from ₹850 to ₹1500 or more per person.
It's highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred slot and operator. You can often book online or through local travel agents.
Most packages include rafting gear (life jacket, helmet, paddle), safety briefing, and transportation to the starting point and back. Some may offer complimentary snacks or photos for an additional charge.
Generally, rafting is suitable for most ages, but operators may have minimum age requirements (often around 10-12 years for shorter stretches). Pregnant women or individuals with serious health conditions should consult their doctor.
Yes, many operators offer professional photography and videography services (often using GoPros) for an extra fee. It's a great way to capture the thrilling moments!
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Wear quick-drying clothes like shorts and a t-shirt. Avoid cotton as it gets heavy when wet. Wear sturdy, secure footwear like sports sandals or water shoes; avoid flip-flops.
Experienced guides are present throughout the trip, providing safety instructions and managing the raft. Life jackets and helmets are mandatory. Operators are trained for emergencies.
Yes, during calmer stretches between rapids, guides often encourage participants to jump in and swim. Be prepared for the water to be quite cold!
Rishikesh offers a range of rapids, from mild (Grade I-II) on shorter stretches to challenging (Grade III-V) on longer routes. The intensity depends on the starting point and water flow.
The duration depends on the stretch. A 9km trip might take 1-2 hours, while a 35km trip can take 4-5 hours, including safety briefings and transport.
📸 📸 Photography
It's generally advised not to bring phones or cameras unless they are waterproof or you have a secure waterproof case. Operators usually provide dry bags for valuables.
Yes, many rafting operators offer professional photography and videography services, often capturing your experience with GoPros. This is usually an add-on cost.
Look out for moments at the start of rapids, during thrilling sections, and the scenic stretches with Himalayan backdrops. The cliff jumping spots also make for great action shots.
If you purchased the photo package, the operator will usually provide you with the digital files after the trip, either immediately or via a shared link.
If you're not using an operator's service, consider a waterproof action camera mounted securely. Alternatively, capture the moments before and after the rafting from the riverbanks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Operators are accustomed to catering to families and ensure that safety is the top priority. Ensure you book with an operator that explicitly states they are family-friendly and confirm the minimum age requirement for children. The guides are skilled at making the experience enjoyable for all ages, and the stunning scenery provides a beautiful backdrop for family memories.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider traveling during the off-peak season or on weekdays for potentially lower rates. If you're traveling solo, inquire about joining a group, as this can sometimes lead to discounted prices. Always confirm what's included in the price to avoid unexpected charges.
❤️ Couples & Adventure Seekers
Consider booking a package that includes professional photos or videos to capture your exciting moments. The feeling of accomplishment after conquering challenging rapids side-by-side is a unique bonding experience. Many operators can tailor the trip to your comfort level, ensuring a perfect blend of romance and adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Choosing Your Rafting Adventure
For the truly adventurous, longer stretches like Marine Drive (24 km), Byasi (30 km), and Kaudiyala (34 km) offer a more intense experience with numerous challenging rapids, including Grade IV and V. These longer trips are ideal for adrenaline seekers and those looking for a full-day adventure. The duration of these trips can range from 1-2 hours for shorter stretches to 4-5 hours for the longest ones, not including travel time to and from the starting points.
When selecting your rafting adventure, consider your comfort level with whitewater. Operators are usually happy to guide you on the best stretch based on your experience and desired thrill. Always prioritize safety and choose a reputable outfitter.
Safety First on the Ganges
The guides are experienced professionals who are trained in whitewater rescue and first aid. They navigate the rafts through the rapids, ensuring the safety of everyone on board. While the rapids can be intense, the guides' expertise and quick response in emergencies provide a strong sense of security. As one reviewer noted, 'During one of the more intense rapids, a member of our group actually fell into the river, but one of the guides responded immediately and professionally, pulling him back into the raft in seconds. We felt extremely safe throughout.'
It's crucial for participants to follow the guides' instructions at all times and to be aware of their surroundings. While the water can be shockingly cold, it's also a part of the thrilling experience. For those concerned about valuables, most operators provide waterproof dry bags to store phones, wallets, and other essentials safely.
Budget-Friendly Rishikesh Rafting
To maximize savings, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons or weekdays when prices might be slightly lower. Booking directly with local operators or through recommendations from fellow travelers can also help secure better deals. Some social media posts even mention getting discounts or cashback offers through specific booking platforms.
When comparing prices, always check what is included in the package. While the base price covers the rafting itself and essential gear, additional costs might apply for transportation, photos, or meals. Planning ahead and comparing a few options can ensure you get the best value for your adventure.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit